Evile released the following statement about the replacement for their late bassist Mike Alexander:

“This has been one of the most bizarre and surreal tasks we’ve ever had to undertake. It isn’t like Mike has decided to leave the band and we’re simply finding a new bass player. He was taken from us, and we were forced to replace him. In effect, we had to look for a new Mike, but that would never happen. He was one of a kind, and we’ll never forget him.

“We had hundreds upon hundreds of emails from bass players from around the world (though we can only realistically have a bassist from the U.K.), and we want to thank everyone for taking the time out to contact us, and the people who came to jam with us.

“We only had a certain amount of time to actually audition/jam with bass players before the upcoming tours, to get time in for rehearsing the songs, getting visas sorted etc.

“Our new bass player goes by the name Joel Graham. He’s an excellent, experienced bass player, and a really nice guy.

“We’d all appreciate it if you gave him a warm welcome to the band, as this must be a bizarre situation for him to be in also.

“We’ll be getting some photos taken with him soon so you can see us with Joel. We just wanted to get the news out there that we have a new bassist, and that we thank each and every person for auditioning. Mike would be honoured at the amount of respect and admiration you expressed to us through contacting us.”

Evile have announced two tribute shows for their fallen bassist Mike Alexander.

Dec. 07 – Leeds, UK – Rio’s
Dec. 08 – London, UK – Underworld

The band says:

“The entrance fee will be £5 minimum as a donation to Mike’s family. To raise more for Mike’s family, we will be holding a tombola/raffle. Items will include gifts from bands from around the world —EXODUS, OVERKILL, HIRAX and many more being confirmed every day. Raffle tickets will be £10 with all takings going to the family.”

If you can make it, have fun, sadly as I’m in Scotland I won’t be able to get there. RIP Mike.

“Thank you so much from all of EVILE and Mike’s family for all the support. It really means alot.

We’ll be posting news regarding any benefit shows for Mike on the site, and also thanks to UKthrash.co.uk, people can donate direct to Mike’s family, as well as send tributes, flowers etc. to the family via our management.

We’re hoping to arrange two very special memorial nights for Mike, so please keep an eye out (not literally out of its socket).

Please leave your messages for Mike’s family and friends in the condolences section, and send any Mike pictures you have to the address on the site.

Thank you to Hayley, Kathy Waters, Chris Wordsworth, Talita Jenman and Julie Weir for all the help getting this site going.”